Written to mark 200 years of the lifeboat service, The Last Shout explores themes of courage, self-sacrifice and our innate need to help others.
Employing a combination of live action and dynamic soundscape, the production immerses audiences in two worlds – past and present.
Joe is an out of work playwright, searching for an idea. His partner, an NHS nurse, resents Joe’s lack of creative passion and artistic integrity.
When Joe begins researching the loss of all eight crewman aboard Cornwall’s Penlee Lifeboat at Christmas 1981, he finds himself drawn into a complex world of heroism, grief and selfless duty.
Written by Simon Parker and directed by Mark Laville, The Last Shout shines a spotlight on the courage of those who go to sea for people they’ve never met; the everyday courage of frontline NHS staff who care for strangers; and the creative courage it takes to tell difficult stories. Ultimately, The Last Shout is about helping others, a message of hope and an acknowledgement that, more than ever, we need real stories to make sense of our lives and to find our place in the world.
Cornish production company – the arc (www.thearctheatre.com) – was formed in the early 2000s. Its acclaimed shows for The Minack Theatre, Sterts Theatre and Plymouth Barbican Theatre include Third Light, Gonamena, Poltroon, Seven Stars and Mad Dog.
The Last Shout is supported by Arts Council England, FEAST Cornwall, Falmouth University, AMATA and Theatre Royal Plymouth.
Important information
Running time:
2 hrs 5 mins (with interval)
Age guideline:
12+
Content warning: Contains haze, strong language (mild swearing), loud music and noise with themes of loss and pulsing lights.
There will be Q&A sessions with the writer, director and cast members after the Tuesday and Thursday evening performances and Saturday matinee
Please note – most of our productions feature flashing lights and loud sounds.
If you require this information prior to booking, please check back for updates or call our Box Office on 01752 267222.
